Path Environment Audit Tool (PEAT) Instruction Manual for Conducting PathTrail Observations

Path Environment Audit Tool (PEAT): Instruction Manual for Conducting Path/Trail Observations Acknowledgment: The development of the PEAT instrument and this manual were funded by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Active Living Research Program If you would like to use the PEAT instrument and this manual, please contact: Dr Philip Troped Purdue University Department of Health and Kinesiology 765-496-9486 ptroped@purdue.edu Page of 39 BACKGROUND INFORMATION Overview of Study & Use of PEAT Unit of Observation – Trail/Path “Segments” Training on Using the PEAT Tool PREPARING TO CONDUCT OBSERVATIONS WITH PEAT COMPLETING PEAT GUIDELINES FOR COMPLETING PEAT FORMS ITEM-BY-ITEM INFORMATION 10 Q1 Intersection with Road 10 1a Traffic signal or stop sign at the intersection for vehicles 10 1b Curb cut at intersection / wheelchair accessible 10 1c Crosswalk at intersection 11 1d Raised crosswalk 11 1e Pedestrian crossing signal 11 1f Safety of intersection 12 DESIGN FEATURES 13 Q2 Condition of Path Surface 2a Surface under repair 13 2b Temporary barrier 14 Q3 Slope 13 14 Q4 Cross Slope 15 Q5 Sufficient Vertical Clearance 15 Q6 Sufficient Site Distance16 Q7 Vegetative Cover/Built Enclosure Q8 Shoulder Present 16 17 Q9 Road Adjacent to Trail/Path 9a Buffer from road 18 9b Width of buffer 18 17 Page of 39 Q10 Access Point 18 10a Is (are) the access point(s) accessible to wheelchair users Q11 Gate(s) or Bollard(s) 11a Clearance of > 32” 19 19 Q12 Viewpoint(s) / Point of Interest AMENITIES 20 21 Q13 Lighting 21 Q14 Telephone(s) 21 14a Telephones - Functioning 22 14b Telephones - Clean 22 14c Telephones - Accessible to wheelchair users Q15 Emergency call box(es) 15a Accessible to wheelchairs Q16 16a 16b 16c 19 22 22 23 Restroom(s) 24 Restrooms - Functioning 24 Restrooms - Clean 25 Restrooms - Accessible to wheelchair users 25 Q17 Bench(es) 25 17a Bench Condition/Cleanliness 26 17b Benches - Accessible to wheelchair users 27 Q18 Picnic Table(s) 27 18a Picnic Table Condition/Cleanliness 27 18b Picnic Table - Accessible to wheelchair users 28 Q19 Drinking Fountain(s) 29 19a Drinking Fountains 29 19b Drinking Fountains - Clean 29 19c Drinking Fountains Accessible to wheelchair users Q20 Garbage Can(s) 30 Q20a Garbage Cans – Overflowing 29 30 Q21 Signage 30 Q22 Car Parking 31 22a Number of parking spaces 31 22b Surface material of parking lot Q23 Bike Rack(s) 32 23a Bicycle Rack Condition 32 Q24 Exercise or Play area(s) 33 32 Page of 39 Q25 Services 33 25a Food service 34 25b Bike or equipment rental/repair 25c Information / Trail service 34 25d Other shop/gift shop 34 34 Q26 Mass transit stop or station 34 Q27 Cultural or civic institutions adjacent Q28 Commercial Destinations Q29 Glass 36 Q30 Litter 36 34 35 Q31 Graffiti 36 Q32 Vandalism Q33 Odor 37 Q34 Noise 37 36 Q35 Dog/Animal droppings Q36 Presence of Dogs REFERENCES 37 38 38 Page of 39 BACKGROUND INFORMATION This manual has been prepared for the research team at the Harvard School of Public Health and others who will be conducting observations of trail and path physical characteristics using the Path Environment Audit Tool (PEAT) Overview of Study & Use of PEAT PEAT and this manual were developed as part of a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded study (Developing and Evaluating Objective Measures of Outdoor Recreational Areas) to develop and evaluate objective measures of the physical characteristics of community paths and trails that are used for physical activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling Six parks and trails in eastern Massachusetts were selected for the study based on their diversity in terms of trail or path design, type of surrounding community (e.g., urban vs suburban), and adjacent demographic characteristics The methods used to characterize these sites included use of existing GIS data layers, GPS data collection at each site, and observations of site physical characteristics with PEAT Approximately 40 miles of paths and trails were mapped with a GPS unit during July 2003 The PEAT instrument was used to collect additional information on trail/path characteristics during the spring of 2004 Data from PEAT was then integrated with GPS data into a comprehensive GIS database characterizing these sites Two observers conducted observations of all trail/path segments at the six study sites to allow for assessment of inter-observer reliability Unit of Observation – Trail/Path “Segments” The use of the PEAT instrument followed collection of spatial data at the six study sites with a high-accuracy GPS unit Trails and paths were divided into segments with new segments started whenever there was a change in primary characteristics such as surface type or type of trail (e.g., primary trail, intersecting road) Maps were developed to identify trail segments and guide observers who used the PEAT instrument A separate PEAT form was completed for each trail/path segment Each trail segment had a unique identifier that was already part of a geographic database This allowed us to link attribute data collected via PEAT into a GIS database on trail segments Page of 39 Training on Using the PEAT Tool For the Harvard trail study, two research assistants made observations with PEAT Since both individuals were unfamiliar with the tool and its development, their training needs were extensive We propose the following general approach for training new observers in future use of PEAT, involving two sessions First, we suggest conducting a 2-4 hour office-based training session that provides: a) background rationale for the tool and its use; b) an overview of the methods (e.g., use of maps to guide trail segment observations); and c) step-by-step review of all PEAT items, including the operational definitions This session should allow enough time for observers to ask questions about the protocol and specific items The second session should occur in the field and will roughly take 2-4 hours to complete During this session, observers should get to practice using the PEAT instrument on at least two trails and paths that vary in their characteristics (e.g., rail-trail and walking path in a park) We recommend that this training occur at sites that will not be part of the actual study One trainer, well-experienced with using PEAT in the field, should lead this field session We suggest limiting the size of groups being trained at one time to four individuals Page of 39 PREPARING TO CONDUCT OBSERVATIONS WITH PEAT Before going to a study site:  Ensure that you have reviewed PEAT with the study PI and have no questions about its use Please note that new observers will first undergo training before using PEAT  If using maps to identify PEAT trail or road segments, ensure that you have reviewed maps for the study site and that there are no ambiguous markings or errors on the map  Ensure that authorities have been contacted about data collection activities prior to visiting a site Ensure that you bring the following to the site:  Site maps  Tablet PC with back-up batteries or PDA  Hand-held GPS unit to determine end-points of trail segments (used at sites in Harvard study)  Spare AA or AAA batteries for handheld GPS  Tape measure  Study identification badge or other ID with affiliation  Informational handouts (for curious trail users)  Watch  Cell phone  Camera (optional)  Sunscreen (optional in Winter months)  Insect repellant  Water / Snacks  Coins (payphones)  Hand sanitizer / Rubber or vinyl gloves Page of 39 COMPLETING PEAT It is very important that each PEAT form (on the tablet PC or PDA) is filled out completely and correctly After completing a PEAT form for a trail segment, briefly review the form to ensure complete and accurate answers The following information is to be recorded at the top of the electronic (Access) PEAT form: Record ID – this ID number is automatically generated each time a new PEAT form is opened (new record is created) A new PEAT form will be completed when moving from one PEAT trail/path segment to another, when different observers are doing observations on the same trail segment, and when observations are being done on a given segment on a different day Date – the access database has been designed so that the date and time are automatically recorded when each form is being filled out Site Name – use the drop down menu to select one of the following study sites: Note that this field will need to be modified for your particular project Observer Initials – use drop down menu to identify you as the observer Note that this field will need to be modified for your particular project PEAT Segment ID – this ID will be obtained from maps of PEAT trail and road segments At the beginning of a new PEAT trail segment verify your location using the maps and enter the PEAT ID (typically a one or two-digit number) into the Access form Include leading zeros when entering the number so that the PEAT Segment ID is a 3-digit number Note that in the Harvard study we referred to trail and road segments as PEAT segments Although the exact approach will likely differ, we recommend segmenting trails and assigning unique identifiers to each segment Page of 39 GUIDELINES FOR COMPLETING PEAT FORMS General Rules  Starting points for observations will be determined by the research team prior to going to a site, and will be clearly marked on “PEAT segment” maps All observers should walk in the same direction along trails/paths   Observers should walk on the right-hand side of the trail/path in order to avoid potential conflicts or collisions with other users Observers should step off the path when completing the PEAT form  Observers are encouraged to re-walk trail/path segments as many times as needed to ensure accuracy on reporting in the PEAT instrument Observers are permitted to complete items on the PEAT instrument as they are walking   Observers will never select the “not applicable” response on the PEAT form The “not applicable” response is for default purposes only  Do not count trail amenities (e.g., garbage can) twice if they are located at the junction of continuous segments Decide which segment the amenity is closest to and count the amenity for that segment only This also means that if an amenity is straddling segments, count that amenity for only segment 10 110 21 Count for both segments 1&2  Count for or only Count for both & Count for 10 or 11only VERY IMPORTANT: At the completion of one trail/path segment, and before beginning the next segment, ENSURE THAT ALL FIELDS ARE COMPLETED ON THE PEAT FORM Recording Answers on Electronic PEAT Form  Upon completing each trail/path segment be sure to check the PEAT Access form to make sure that all questions have been completed Page of 39 Page 10 of 39 Q16 Restroom(s) Are there restrooms located along this trail segment that are intended for trail users?  Select one: o Yes o No IF Q16=YES, THEN ANSWER ITEMS ON RESTROOM SUBFORM NOTE: Where gender specified restrooms are present, observers are only required to make assessments of the appropriate facility 16a Restrooms - Functioning – Are the restrooms working properly? Select one: o Yes (all) - If restrooms are permanent - all must be true:  Toilets appear to be flushable, and  Toilet paper is available, and  Sinks, soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, and/or hand dryers appear to be functioning, and  The door properly opens, closes and locks - If restrooms are portable - all must be true:  Toilet paper is available, and  The door properly opens, closes and locks o No (none) - If restrooms are permanent:  Toilets not appear to be flushable, or  No toilet paper is available, or  Sinks, soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, and/or hand dryers not appear to be functioning, or  A sign is present that indicates that the restroom is out of order - If restrooms are portable:  The door does not properly open, close, and/or lock, or  No toilet paper is available, or  A sign is present that indicates that the restroom is out of order o Some - If there is more than one restroom along a given trail segment and not all fit a response of “YES” or “NO” then the appropriate response is “SOME.”  Page 25 of 39 16b Restrooms - Clean – Rate the cleanliness of the restroom facilities  Select one: o o o o o Very poor (1) – Restroom facilities are extremely filthy Floors, sinks and toilets are very dirty No regular cleaning is apparent Paper products and/or litter are on the floor Waste baskets are overflowing Sinks and toilets may be clogged Floors are dirty and maybe wet Observer would unlikely use facility based on cleanliness Poor (2) – Restroom facilities are dirty Little maintenance is apparent Observers may be reluctant to use the facilities due to filth Fair (3) – Restroom facilities are in acceptable condition Facilities appear to be maintained periodically Good (4) – Restroom facilities are in satisfactory condition Regular maintenance is apparent Floors, sinks, toilets, and counters appear clean Few pieces of paper products are on the floors, counters or sink Regular cleaning is apparent Excellent (5) – Restroom facilities are in new or near new condition and appear to have regular cleaning Floors, sinks, and toilets appear very clean No paper products or litter are on the floor or in the sink Floors are dry Observer would use facilities without hesitation based on cleanliness All must be true to rate as excellent 16c Restrooms - Accessible to wheelchairs – Are the restroom facilities accessible to wheelchairs? This can be determined by either signs or markings in the restroom or by making assessments of the dimensions of the restroom NOTE: observer will not take all measurements Dimensions are included in order to train observers on how to be able to visually determine whether the restrooms are accessible to wheelchairs Observers will however measure doorway width initially, until they are comfortable “eyeballing” the dimensions  Doorway width: >32” (preferably 36”)  Grab bars: 30” off floor  Dimensions: 5’ by 10’  Toilet seat height: 17”-19” from floor Guidelines from Trails for the 21st Century (p.97) and ADA guidelines at http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm  Select one: o Yes (all) - Restroom facility appears to be accessible to wheelchairs with either a sign indicating this or based on visual appraisal by the observer using the above criteria If a restroom is marked as wheelchair accessible, then YES is appropriate response o No (none) - Restrooms not appear to be accessible to wheelchairs Doorways are not > 32” and/or other dimensions are not appropriate based on observer visual appraisal o Some - There is more than one restroom; not all are accessible Q17 Bench(es) Are there benches or other forms of seating along this trail segment that are intended for trail users and are easily accessible from the trail? Page 26 of 39 This should include any structures that were intentionally designed to provide seating Include any forms of seating that are directly accessible from the trail Seating should be included if it is generally within 25 yards of the trail (50 yards for a linear trail) Include seating bordering play areas and ball fields and courts if it is directly accessible from the trail  Select one: o Yes – there is seating or benches along the trail segment o No – there is no seating or benches along the trail segment Bench: a long seat for two or more persons IF Q17=YES, THEN ANSWER ITEMS ON SUBFORM 17a Bench Condition/Cleanliness Rate the condition and cleanliness of the benches or seating along the trail segment Note: If there is more than one bench or seat along the segment, then assign an average rating to the benches/seating  Select one: o Very poor (1) – Either because of severe structural problems or filth on surfaces the bench can not be used o Poor (2) – The sitting surface has structural problems (broken slats) OR is very dirty (e.g., bird droppings) o Fair (3) – The bench has only minor structural problems that would not affect use & structure is moderately clean o Good (4) – Older bench that is structurally sound & generally is in clean condition o Excellent (5) – In new or near new condition; has clean sitting surfaces Page 27 of 39 17b Benches - Accessible to wheelchair users Do the benches or seating provide a paved (e.g., concrete or asphalt) adjacent area for a wheelchair to maneuver and park?  Select one: o Yes (all) - there is circulation space adjacent to the bench or seating for a wheelchair to park; clearance on at least one end that would allow someone to position his/her wheelchair next to the bench; and the surface is level and fairly hard and compacted o No (none) - there is not adequate circulation space adjacent to the bench or seating for a wheelchair; no clearance is present on at least one end that would allow someone to position his/her wheelchair next to the bench; and the surface is soft and not level o Some - if there is more than one bench or seat and only some are accessible U.S Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration website Q18 Picnic table(s) Are there picnic tables located along this trail segment that appear to be intended for users and are accessible from the trail?  Select one: o Yes o No IF Q18=YES, THEN ANSWER ITEMS ON PICNIC TABLE SUBFORM 18a Picnic Table Condition/Cleanliness Rate the condition and cleanliness of the tables Note: If there is more than one table along the segment, then assign an average rating to the tables  Select one: o Very poor (1) – either because of severe structural problems or filth on eating or sitting surfaces the table can not be used o Poor (2) – the eating or sitting surface has structural problems (broken slats) OR the table is very dirty (e.g., bird droppings) o Fair (3) - minor structural problems that would not affect use & structure is moderately clean o Good (4) – older table that is structurally sound & generally is in clean condition Page 28 of 39 o Excellent (5) – in new or near new condition; has clean eating and sitting surfaces 18b Picnic Table - Accessible to wheelchair users Do the picnic tables provide a paved (e.g., concrete or asphalt) adjacent area for a wheelchair to access it, maneuver and park? (see definition below)  Select one: o Yes (all) - there is circulation space to and around the table for a wheelchair; clearance on at least one end that would allow someone to position his/her wheelchair next to the table; and the surface surrounding the table and leading to the table from the trail is level and fairly hard and compacted o No (none) - there is insufficient circulation space to or around the table for a wheelchair; or no clearance is present on at least one end that would allow someone to position his/her wheelchair next to the table; or the surface surrounding the table and leading to the table from the trail is not level or fairly hard and compacted o Some - if there is more than one table and only some are accessible For Training: Definition of circulation space: Sources: 1) National Centers on accessibility - http://www.ncaonline.org/monographs/4picnictables.shtm 2) American with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities Section 4.24 & 4.32 3) Trails for the 21st Century, (2nd edition) Rails-To-Trails Conservancy p.101 4) Americans with Disabilities Act – ADA Homepage - 21st Century and ADA guidelines Source: http://www.ncaonline.org/monographs/4picnictables.shtml Clearance for Accessible Wheelchair Seating Spaces o Circulation space: > 48” on all sides of the unit   o o o Clear floor space is a minimum of 30 x 48 inches, with one fullunobstructed side connected to an outdoor recreation access route Table clearance requires a minimum of 36 inches clear floor or ground space surrounding the useable portion of the table, measured from the seat “Situated on level, free draining ground with a fairly hard compacted surface” Table top height: between 30-34” Clearance: 29” at each end   Knee space should allow a minimum of 27 inches in height, 30 inches in width, and 19 inches in depth Toe clearance requires a inch minimum height and shall extend an additional inch minimum from knee clearance, 30 inches minimum width and 19 inches in minimum depth Wheel chair accessible tables National Center on Accessibility website http://www.ncaonline.org/monographs/4picnictables.shtml Page 29 of 39 Q19 Drinking fountain(s) Are there one or more drinking fountains located along this trail segment intended for users and are accessible from the trail?  Select one: o Yes o No IF Q19=YES, THEN ANSWER ITEMS ON DRINKING FOUNTAIN SUBFORM 19a Drinking fountains - Functioning – Is the drinking fountain working properly? Note: Observer should test fountain(s) to determine if they are functioning  Select one: o Yes (all) - all of the drinking fountains present on this segment are functioning o No (none) - none of the drinking fountains located on this segment are functioning o Some - if there is more than one water fountain and only some are functioning 19b Drinking Fountains - Clean – Rate the cleanliness of the drinking fountains Clean means that the fountains are free of debris such leaves, gum, or litter If the observer would have any hesitancy about drinking from a fountain because of its appearance the appropriate response is “poor” or “very poor.” Note: If there is more than one drinking fountain along the segment, then assign an average rating to the drinking fountains  Select one: o Very poor (1) - the drinking fountain is extremely filthy; there may be gum, papers, or rubbish in the basin; because of severe filth drinking fountain can not be used o Poor (2) - the drinking fountain is very dirty; some gum, papers or rubbish may be in the basin; observer may be reluctant to use fountain based on the condition o Fair (3) - the drinking fountain is moderately clean o Good (4) - the drinking fountain is in clean condition o Excellent (5) - the drinking fountain is in new or near new condition and is very clean 19c Drinking fountains accessible to wheelchairs users From your observation does the height (clearance below) and surrounding surface of the drinking fountain make it accessible to someone using a wheelchair?  Select one: o Yes (all) - one or all drinking fountains located along this segment are accessible to wheelchairs by being located on a hard and compacted surface with clearance below the basin > 27” o No (none) - none of the drinking fountains located along this segment are accessible to wheelchairs o Some - if there is more than one water fountain and only some are accessible to wheelchairs Page 30 of 39 For Training: Clearance below basin should be > 27”; Fountain should be located on a flat and compacted surface Q20 Garbage can(s) Are there garbage cans located along this trail segment intended for trail users and are accessible from the trail?  Select one: o Yes – there are one or more garbage cans located along this trail segment o No – there are no garbage cans located along the trail segment IF Q20=YES, THEN ANSWER ITEM ON GARBAGE CAN SUBFORM Q20a Garbage cans – Overflowing  Are the garbage cans overflowing with rubbish? NOTE: If a garbage can is not full and there is litter of garbage next to the can, this should be accounted for in the LITTER item (Q30) Alternatively if the garbage can is overflowing and there is garbage/litter next to the can then the observer should record both “garbage can overflowing” and the ‘litter” items Select one: o Yes (all) - garbage is overflowing from the top of the can(s), may have spilled over onto the surrounding ground, and there is little room for additional pieces in the can o No (none) - all garbage fits in the can(s) and there is sufficient space for additional garbage in the can(s) for all cans located along the segment o Some - there is more than one garbage can and some (but not all) are overflowing Q21 Signage Is there any type of signage along the trail segment? (see definition) Only include signage related to use of the trail Do NOT include temporary signs, posters, flyers or signs in play areas or on playing fields or courts It is possible that one sign may fit in several sign categories If this is so, mark all appropriate categories for the type of sign  Select one: o Yes o No Sign (Signage): A board, post, or placard that displays written, symbolic, tactile, or pictorial information about the trail or surrounding area Signage increases safety and comfort on trails There are five basic types of signs: Cautionary, Directional, Interpretive, Objective, and Regulatory Source: Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trails and Greenways Clearinghouse website http://www.trailsandgreenways.org/resources/highlights/primer/glossary.asp If Q21=YES, THEN COMPLETE THE ITEMS ON THE SIGNAGE SUBFORM INDICATING THE TYPE OF SIGNS OBSERVED Page 31 of 39 21a Select YES or NO for the types of signs present along this trail segment 21a Sign, Cautionary: Warns of upcoming roadway crossings, steep grades, blind curves, and other potential trail hazards  Also include signals (such as flashing yellow lights) intended to slow/caution trail users about upcoming roadways and any painted warnings on the trail surface  Do NOT include pedestrian crossing signals in this item Those should only be included in the intersecting road item 21b Sign, Directional: Gives street names, trail names, direction arrows, mileage to points of interest, and other navigational information Also include maps and directional markers Definition: Communicates position and the distribution of physical or geographical features within the facility including distances traveled along a route, including the location of restrooms and other support facilities 21c Sign, Interpretive: Offers educational information that describes and explains a natural, historical, or cultural point of interest on or along the trail 21d Sign, Objective: Provides information about the actual trail conditions, including grade, cross slope, surface, clear trail width, and obstacle height This allows users to make more informed decisions about which trails best meet their trail needs and abilities 21e Sign, Regulatory: Tells the "rules of the trail" by prohibiting certain uses or controlling direction of travel Source: Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trails and Greenways Clearinghouse website http://www.trailsandgreenways.org/resources/highlights/primer/glossary.asp Q22 Car parking Is there a public parking lot located adjacent to this trail segment, connected to the trail segment, and intended for park and trail users? Note: Do not include parking that is apparently private, residential, or business affiliated  Select one: o Yes – there is a parking lot intended for trail users and built and supported by the trail (This must be a parking lot.) o No – there is no car parking along the trail segment or the parking lots appear to be private, residential, or business affiliated IF Q22=YES, THEN COMPLETE ITEMS ON CAR PARKING SUBFORM 22a Number of parking spaces – Estimate the number of parking spaces in the parking lot(s) on this trail segment (only include parking lots affiliated with the trail or path.) This number is based on an approximation by the observer (Note: if there is more than parking lot adjacent to trail segment, estimate the total number of spaces in all lots)  Select one: o 50 Page 32 of 39 22b Surface material of parking lot – Classify the surface material of the parking lot  If there is more than one surface material select the one that covers >50% of the parking lot surface area If there is more than one parking lot, use the same rule; choose the category that covers >50% of all parking lot surfaces Select one: o Asphalt - a dark substance used for pavement o Dirt - loose or packed soil o Gravel - loose rounded fragments of rock o Stone - cobblestone; a naturally rounded stone larger than a pebble and smaller than a boulder; such as a stone used in paving a street or in construction o Grass o Brick - handy-sized unit of building or paving material typically being rectangular and of moist clay hardened by heat o Sand - loose granular pieces of rocks, consists of particles smaller than gravel but o coarser than silt Cement - concrete Source: Merriam-Webster Online- http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=Litter Q23 Bike rack(s) Are there bicycle racks along this trail segment that are intended for trail or path users?  Select one: o Yes – there is one or more bicycle racks located along this trail segment o No – there are no bicycle racks located along the trail segment IF Q23=YES, THEN COMPLETE ITEM ON BIKE RACK SUBFORM 23a Bicycle rack condition What is the condition of the bicycle racks? Note: If there is more than one bike rack along the segment, then assign an average or overall rating of the racks  Select one: o Very poor (1) - A bicycle rack is present, but it is in such poor condition (bent or broken parts) that make it virtually unusable o Poor (2) - Bicycle rack(s) need to be replaced They are bent out of shape or broken Observer may be reluctant to use bike rack based on the condition o Fair (3) - Bicycle racks are in decent condition; damage and vandalism is minimal Observers would feel comfortable leaving their bikes here based on the condition of the racks o Good (4) - A bicycle rack that has no signs of damage or vandalism; condition is such that it would provide a safe place to lock a bike o Excellent (5) - Bicycle racks appear new and in perfect condition No vandalism is evident and observers would leave their bikes here without hesitation based on the condition of the bike racks Page 33 of 39 Q24 Exercise or Play area(s) Are there any play or exercise areas for children or adults located along this trail segment that are accessible from the trail? Exercise or play areas include, but are not limited to, courts, playgrounds, ball fields, swimming pools, rinks, exercise equipment, fitness stations, and community gardens  Select one: o Yes – there is one or more exercise/play areas located along this trail segment o No – there are no exercise/play areas located along the trail segment IF Q24=YES, THEN COMPLETE 11 ITEMS ON SUBFORM (SELECT YES OR NO) 24a-l Specify the exercise or play areas present Select yes or no for each item listed If there are other exercise or play areas that are not categorized on the list observers will judge whether it appears as though it is intended for adults or children, and mark the appropriate “other” category If it appears that the area could be used by both children and adults, mark “yes” for “other” adult exercise area “Other child play” is reserved for areas intended exclusively for young children o 24a Court - Including, but not limited to, basketball courts, tennis courts, etc o 24b Playground – Including, but not limited to: swing sets, slides, see-saws, jungle-gyms and other climbing apparatus, etc o 24c Ball Field - Including, but not limited to, baseball, soccer, football fields, etc o 24e Swimming pool - Outdoor or indoor pool o 24f Rink - Ice-skating or roller hockey o 24g Exercise equipment - Including, but not limited to: pull-up bars, sit-up benches, parallel bars, balance boards, stretching apparatus o 24h Community Garden - Reserved land where people in the community can grow flowers, plants, fruits, and vegetables o 24i Golf - Golf course (include putting greens and driving ranges) o 24j Track o 24k “Other” child play - Any other apparent child exercise/play area that does not fit into one of the above categories This includes, but is not limited to: water garden, wading pool, sand box, etc o 24l “Other” exercise adult - Any other type of adult exercise area that does not fit in above categories Q25 Services Are there any services located on this trail segment accessible from the trail and intended specifically for trail users?  Select one: o Yes - There is one or more service(s) located along this trail segment which are accessible from the trail and intended specifically for trail users o No - There are no services located along this trail segment Note: If there are services which are not accessible from the trail or are intended to serve the general public as well as trail users, count this item as “no.”(This may classify them as DESTINATIONS (Q28) rather than supporting trail services) Page 34 of 39 IF Q25=YES, THEN COMPLETE ITEMS ON SUBFORM Specify the service(s) located along the trail segment For each service listed, select YES or NO 25a Food service - snack shop, food cart, vending machine, ice cream trucks (if parked on park or trail property) 25b Bike or equipment rental/repair - a shop or stand that offers bicycle or other equipment rentals or repairs (includes air stations for tires) 25c Information/Trail service - facility or booth may be manned by park or trail personnel; may provide maps or other informational material; may provide first aid 25d Other shop/gift shop - e.g., historical shop in a park or along the trail/path; a shop that is intended for park or trail users Q26 Mass transit stop or station Are there one or more buses or mass transit stops or stations located along this segment? Note: the stop or station should be directly along the segment (e.g., not across a street)  Select one: o Yes o No Q27 Cultural or civic institutions adjacent Are there one or more cultural or civic institutions located along the trail segment? NOTE: Observer will make a determination based on what he/she can readily observe (e.g there is a name on building) o Observers are NOT required to enter buildings to determine their type o If the observer cannot readily determine the types of building, they should disregard it in the overall assessment o The cultural or civic institutions must be located within one city block of the path or trail segment and must be accessible from the trail with no barriers (e.g., fences between the trail and the cultural/civic institution) o If the institution is located within one block of two adjacent trail segments count the institution for both segments  Select one: o Yes – there are one or more cultural or civic institutions located along the trail segment o No – there are no cultural or civic institutions located along the trail segment IF Q27=YES, THEN COMPLETE THE ITEMS ON THE CULTURAL INSTITUTION SUBFORM (SELECT YES OR NO FOR EACH ITEM) 27a 27b 27c 27d 27e Community Facilities – such as senior center, community center Historic Buildings/Sites – such as historic houses, battle markers Health care facilities – such as hospitals, neighborhood health clinic Cultural Institutions – such as museums, theaters, open air theaters Municipal Building – such as police, government, schools Page 35 of 39 27f Secular/Religious buildings – such as churches, synagogues Q28 Commercial destinations Are there any commercial destinations located adjacent to this trail segment and are accessible from the trail? These include, but are not limited to, markets, restaurants, retail shops Destinations must be o directly adjacent to the trail, o must be no further than one city block from the trail, o must be visible and observable from the trail segment, must be readily apparent to the observer without any special investigation, and o must be accessible from the trail with no barriers between the trail and the destination such as fences o If a destination is located within one block of two adjacent or parallel trail segments count the destination for both segments NOTE: Observers are not expected to enter buildings or ask those passing by Destination: a place to which one is journeying  Select one: o Yes – there are one or more destinations located adjacent to this trail segment and are accessible from the trail o No – there are no destinations located adjacent to this trail segment and are accessible from the trail Page 36 of 39 Q29 Glass – Rate the amount of glass found on this trail segment Only count broken glass Also include glass that is visible on the shoulders Intact glass bottles should be counted as litter     None - there is no glass along the trail segment A Little - there is a little glass along the segment Some - there is some glass along the segment, but not a great amount; a single broken glass bottle would be considered ‘some’ glass A lot - there is a large amount of glass along the segment; glass is in multiple areas along the segment Q30 Litter– Rate the amount of litter found on this trail segment Include litter that is visible on both the trail and the shoulder Litter: trash, wastepaper, cigarette butts or garbage lying scattered about Source: Merriam-Webster Online- http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=Litter (modified)     None - there is no litter along the segment A Little - there is a little litter along the segment Some - there is some litter along the segment, but not a great amount A lot - there is a large amount of litter along the segment, which is visible in multiple areas along the trail Q31 Graffiti– Rate the amount of graffiti found on this trail segment Include all graffiti visible on the trail, shoulder, trail amenities, or overall trail environment Graffiti: Any writing, printing, marks, signs, symbols, figures, designs, inscriptions, or other drawings that are scratched, scrawled, painted, drawn, or otherwise placed on any surface of a building, wall, fence, trail tread, or other structure on trails or greenways and which have the effect of defacing the property Source: Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trails and Greenways Clearinghouse website http://www.trailsandgreenways.org/resources/highlights/primer/glossary.asp     None - there is no graffiti along this segment A Little - there is a little graffiti along the segment Some - there is some graffiti along the segment, but not a great amount A lot - there is a large amount of graffiti along the segment, which is visible in multiple areas along the trail Q32 Vandalism– Rate the amount of vandalism found on this trail segment Include all vandalism visible on the trail, shoulder, trail amenities, or overall trail environment Vandalism: willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or private property Source: http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=Vandalism    None - there is no vandalism along this segment A Little - there is a little vandalism along the segment Some - there is some vandalism along the segment, but not a great amount Page 37 of 39  A lot - there is a large amount of vandalism along the segment, which is visible in multiple areas along the trail Q33 Odor– Rate the amount of odor found on this trail segment Include any foul odor including, but not limited to, car exhaust, factory emissions, garbage, or other natural odors Pleasant fragrant aromas should not influence this rating     None - there is no FOUL odor along the segment A Little - there is a little FOUL odor along the segment Some - there is some FOUL odor along the segment, but not a great amount A lot - there is a large amount of FOUL odor along the segment Q34 Noise– Rate the amount of noise found on this trail segment     None - there is no noise from traffic, trains, construction, music, horns, sirens, factories, or other sources along this segment This segment is very quiet A Little - there is minimal noise from traffic, trains, construction, music, horns, sirens factories, or other sources along this segment This segment is fairly quiet Some - there is some noise from traffic, trains, construction, music, horns, sirens factories, or other sources along this segment but not a great amount A lot - there is a large amount of noise from traffic, trains, construction, music, horns, sirens factories, or other sources along this segment Q35 Dog/Animal droppings – Rate the amount of animal droppings found on this trail segment NOTE: observers should check for dog or other animal (goose, horse, other (but not bird)) droppings directly on the trail or path, not on the shoulder  None - there are no dog/animal droppings along the segment  A Little - there are a little dog/animal droppings along the segment  Some - there are some dog/animal droppings along the segment, but not a great amount  A lot - there is a large amount of dog/animal droppings along the segment, which is visible in multiple areas along the trail Q36 Presence of dogs  Are there any dogs on the trail segment, on the shoulder, or areas directly adjacent to the trail segment you are observing at the time of observation? NOTE: Do not count dogs that are on other trail segments or are in areas adjacent to other segments Select one: o Yes - there are one or more dogs present o No - there are no dogs present Page 38 of 39 REFERENCES Merriam-Webster Online http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trails and Greenways Clearinghouse website http://www.trailsandgreenways.org/resources/highlights/primer/glossary.asp U.S Department of Transportation - Wetland Trail Design and Construction http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/fspubs/01232833/appenb.htm Trails for the 21st Century, (2nd edition) Rails-To-Trails Conservancy, p.97, 101, 176, 179 Americans with Disabilities Act – ADA Homepage - 21st Century and ADA guidelines http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm National Center on Accessibility website http://www.ncaonline.org/monographs/4picnictables.shtml Lateral visibility photos Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trails and Greenways Clearinghouse website http://www.trailsandgreenways.org/photos/ Accessible table photo National center on accessibility http://www.ncaonline.org/monographs/4picnictables.shtml Telephone picture US Department of Education – NIDRR - ADA & IT Technical Assistance Centers – ADA Document Portal http://www.adaportal.org/Facility_Access/ADAAG/figures/fig44.html U.S Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration website http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/contents.htm Cross Slope Picture http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/sidewalks2ab.htm Cross Walk picture http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/sidewalks202.htm Pedestrian Crossing Signal http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/sidewalks202.htm Bollard picture http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/sidewalk2/sidewalks212.htm Page 39 of 39 ... 39 BACKGROUND INFORMATION This manual has been prepared for the research team at the Harvard School of Public Health and others who will be conducting observations of trail and path physical characteristics... observations of trail and path physical characteristics using the Path Environment Audit Tool (PEAT) Overview of Study & Use of PEAT PEAT and this manual were developed as part of a Robert Wood Johnson... INFORMATION Overview of Study & Use of PEAT Unit of Observation – Trail /Path “Segments” Training on Using the PEAT Tool PREPARING TO CONDUCT OBSERVATIONS WITH PEAT COMPLETING PEAT GUIDELINES FOR